Glutamine
Generic name: glutamine [ GLOO-ta-meen ]
Brand names: GlutaSolve, SYMPT-X Glutamine, NutreStore, SYMPT-X G.I., Endari
Dosage forms: oral capsule (500 mg; 750 mg), oral powder for reconstitution (-), oral tablet (1000 mg; 500 mg)
Drug class: Nutraceutical products
What is glutamine?
Glutamine is used to support muscle tissue growth and protection, energy storage, and immune system function under certain conditions.
Glutamine is used as a supplement for certain types of conditions, such as injuries, severe burns, stomach and intestinal problems that decrease the absorption of glutamine, or other problems that increase stress on the body.
Glutamine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Glutamine side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Glutamine may cause serious side effects. Stop using glutamine and call your doctor at once if you have:
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seizure;
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manic episodes--racing thoughts, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, risk-taking behavior, being agitated or talkative; or
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liver problems--loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Less serious side effects may be more likely, or you may have none at all.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed. Tell your healthcare provider if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use glutamine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
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severe illness, including multiple organ failure; or
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liver or kidney disease.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if glutamine is safe to use if you have or have ever had:
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have a medical condition or take any other medicines.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
How should I take glutamine?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Take the glutamine tablet or capsule ideally on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal) or after exercise.
Read and carefully follow the instructions for mixing and taking the glutamine powder. The glutamine powder can also be given through a feeding tube. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep each dose of the oral powder in its packet until you are ready to use it.
Glutamine dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Dietary Supplement:
Average Dose: 10 g orally 3 times per day
Dosing range: 5 g to 30 g orally per day
Usual Adult Dose for Short Bowel Syndrome:
Oral: 5 g orally 6 times per day at 2 to 3 hour intervals, with meals or snacks, while awake, for up to 16 weeks; to be used in combination with growth hormone and nutritional support.
Usual Adult Dose for Sickle Cell Anemia:
In a clinical study of 7 patients after 4 weeks of therapy with glutamine at 30 g orally per day, there was clinical benefit in reducing the oxidative susceptibility of sickle red blood cells.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Sickle Cell Anemia:
In a clinical study of 27 children (5.2 to 17.9 years old) after 24 weeks of therapy with glutamine at 600 mg/kg/day orally there was clinical benefit seen in resting energy expenditure and improvement in nutritional parameters.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while taking glutamine?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
What other drugs will affect glutamine?
Other drugs may affect glutamine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.
Popular FAQ
Glutamine, taken either in the diet or as a supplement, preserves muscle function and improves nitrogen balance. In addition, it crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a precursor to neurotransmitters. In theory, this makes it beneficial in athletes who subject their bodies to high levels of physical and mental stress and whose requirement for glutamine far exceeds that of a non-training person. Glutamine deficiencies can contribute to sub-optimal performance and slow recovery times. Continue reading
More about glutamine
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Reviews (5)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: nutraceutical products
Patient resources
- Glutamine advanced reading
- Glutamine Capsules and Tablets
- Glutamine Powder (For Sickle Cell Disease)
- Glutamine Powder (For Stomach or Bowel Problems)
Other brands
Endari, NutreStore, GlutaSolve, SYMPT-X G.I.
Professional resources
Other brands
Related treatment guides
Further information
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
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